Key West Trip Planner
Why Visit Key West: Top Reasons & Highlights
Travelers love Key West for its vibrant nightlife and unique local culture, as reviews rave about the lively Duval Street and picturesque sunsets at Mallory Square. Visitors also enjoy snorkeling at the coral reefs and exploring historical sites like Hemingway's house. Use Pilot to effortlessly organize your Key West adventure.
Key West travel photos
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What to do in Key West
With so much to do and so much to see, use Pilot to make your plan to make the most of your trip.
Explore top things to do
- 🌅 Visit Mallory Square for breathtaking sunsets and street performances. - 🏛️ Explore Hemingway’s House for intriguing literary history. - 🌴 Stroll through Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, a tranquil escape. - 🍤 Savor fresh seafood at local favorites like Blue Heaven. - 🚴♂️ Rent bikes and ride to southernmost point marker. Use Pilot to easily plan and organize your Key West itinerary with all these top spots.
Find the perfect neighborhood to stay in
🗺️ Duval Street: Lively and central, perfect for nightlife and shopping. 🏖️ Old Town: Historic charm with beautiful architecture and quaint streets. 🚶♀️ Bahama Village: Diverse culture and delicious local food. 🌅 Mallory Square: Best sunsets and a vibrant atmosphere. 🏝️ Key West Historic District: Packed with history and landmarks. Pilot helps you find the best places to stay and secure great deals on hotel bookings.
Discover the best food and drink
🍤 Savor Key West's conch fritters; they're a must-try island specialty. Locals rave about their crispness and flavor. 🦐 Fresh pink shrimp reign supreme in this coastal town. Often found in a deliciously simple preparation, they're favored by many. 🐟 Key lime pie is iconic here. Its sweet-tart flavor defines the island. 🍍 Try a Cuban sandwich. Made with roast pork, it’s a tasty local staple. 🍽️ Check out Blue Heaven for conch, and El Siboney for authentic Cuban fare. 🍰 Pepe’s Café and Bakery is famous for its standout key lime pie. ✨ Use Pilot to effortlessly plan your Key West meals and explore these culinary delights.
In popular culture
🎥 "License to Kill" - A James Bond film was partly shot in Key West, showcasing its distinctive vibes. 📺 "Bloodline" - Netflix drama series features the Keys, capturing both beauty and secrets. 🎬 "True Lies" - Arnold Schwarzenegger's spy thriller included action scenes filmed here. 🎵 Jimmy Buffett - Songs like "Margaritaville" highlight its laid-back beach vibe. 🧳 Social media loves the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, a daily arts festival. 📌 Hemingway House - Famed writer's former home, a cultural icon and popular tourist spot.
Key West at a glance
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What reviews say
- Beautiful sunsets and vibrant nightlife. - Reviews say it's touristy but charming. - Walkable streets and unique shops. - Don't miss the Hemingway House. - Nearby beaches are a highlight. - Locals recommend trying conch fritters. - It's pricey, so budget accordingly. - Some find it crowded in peak season. - Visit during off-peak for a quieter experience.
What reddit says
- Key West offers laid-back vibes and beautiful sunsets. - People love exploring the colorful streets and Duval Street's nightlife. - Highly recommended: snorkeling trips and visiting dry Tortugas. - Key Lime Pie is a must-try local treat. - Some say it's touristy and expensive; plan accordingly. - Hidden gems include Fort Zachary Taylor and Hemingway's House. - Beware of crowds during peak season.
Travel tips and safety
- Key West is laid-back with friendly locals—flip-flops are the norm. - The Conch Republic flag is flown proudly; the independent spirit is lively. - Accommodation can be pricey; budget $200+ for mid-range hotels. - Fresh seafood is a staple; try conch fritters at local spots. - Tipping is customary: 15-20% for good service. - Odd laws: chickens roam freely—leave them be. Key West is generally safe but consult travel advisories for updated information as situations can change.
Getting around
- Key West's public transit is convenient; the free Duval Loop and city buses make most areas accessible. - Taxis and rideshares are available; Lyft and Uber often cheaper than local taxis. - The island is walkable; bike rentals widely available and cost-effective. - Guided tours offer organized options for exploring. - Pilot can help you map routes and plan your daily itinerary efficiently.
How much it costs to visit
1. Budget Travel Costs - Accommodation: Hostel beds start at $35 per night. - Meals: $15 for casual dining. - Transport: $2.75 for a one-zone bus ticket. - Activities: Free activities like beaches or $10 for local attractions. 2. Mid-Range Travel Costs - Accommodation: Hotel rooms from $120 per night. - Meals: $30 for a decent restaurant meal. - Transport: $4.25 for a day pass on public transit. - Activities: Popular tours are around $40. 3. Luxury Travel Costs - Accommodation: Luxury hotels from $300 per night. - Meals: Fine dining starting at $75. - Transport: Private taxis or rentals starting at $75 per day. - Activities: Experiences like private boat charters start at $200. Prices vary at different times of the year and during large events. Check Pilot to find current rates for hotels and activities.
What to do if you only have one day to visit
😊 Start your morning at Blue Heaven for their famous breakfast. Try the Key Lime pancakes. 🌞 Walk to the South Beach and dip your toes in the warm water. 🏛️ Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Check out the six-toed cats. 🍹 Head to Mallory Square for fresh seafood and watch street performers. 🚤 Don’t miss a quick sail or kayaking trip around the island before lunch. 🍽️ Grab a late lunch at Garbo’s Grill. Try their fish tacos. 🌅 As the sun sets, head to a rooftop bar for a cocktail with a view. 🎨 End with a stroll along Duval Street. Pop into galleries and shops. Use Pilot to easily generate and map an itinerary like this for you for free in just a few clicks.
What to do if it rains
- 🌦️ Check out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. It's filled with fascinating history and adorable six-toed cats. - 🎨 The Key West Art & Historical Society is a great spot to dive into local art and cultural exhibits. - 🍹 Hop into the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery for a tour and tasting of their delicious rums. - 🎬 Enjoy a movie at the Tropic Cinema, an indie theater with a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of films. - 🦈 The Key West Aquarium will keep you entertained with engaging exhibits and interactive experiences. - 📚 Spend an afternoon at Books & Books browsing a wide selection and maybe catching an author event. - 🎭 Treat yourself to a show at the Waterfront Playhouse for some local theater talent. - 👩🎨 Consider a workshop at the Studios of Key West, where creativity comes alive with hands-on learning.
When to visit and how many days to spend
- Best visit: November to April with mild weather, 18-25°C (64-77°F), perfect for outdoor activities. - Avoid June to October. It's hot, 25-32°C (77-89°F), with frequent rain and hurricanes. - Key West has a tropical savanna climate. Warm all year, distinct dry and wet seasons. - The island’s coral reef biome impacts its humidity and warmth. - Expect sunny days, ideal for beach trips and exploring.
How to find events during your stay
- For a current events roundup, check out Key West Citizen , a local news site that covers events and happenings. [keysnews.com](https://www.keysnews.com) - Visit Visit Key West , the official tourism site, for a comprehensive list of festivals and cultural activities. They regularly update their events calendar. [fla-keys.com/key-west](https://www.fla-keys.com/key-west) - Follow @keywestfoodandwinefestival on Instagram for insights into food-related events and festivals. - Keep an eye on Key West Historic Seaport 's Facebook page for local markets and smaller public events. [facebook.com/KeyWestHistoricSeaport](https://www.facebook.com/KeyWestHistoricSeaport) - Check out the community insights on Reddit Key West . Locals often share updates on upcoming events. [reddit.com/r/keywest](https://www.reddit.com/r/keywest) - Use Eventbrite's Key West section for a variety of events, including concerts and community gatherings. [eventbrite.com/d/fl--key-west/events](https://www.eventbrite.com/d/fl--key-west/events)
Before your trip, read the history
Key West, founded in 1822 and named by Spanish sailors as 'Cayo Hueso' or Bone Island due to its history as a Native American burial ground, offers a rich tapestry of history that'll intrigue any first-time visitor. Initially a Spanish territory, this small island has connections dating back to the Calusa and Tequesta tribes. Over time, it evolved into a hub for pirate activity and a key location in the salvaging industry. The natural beauty of the area, coupled with fertile waters, made it an enticing spot for early settlers and trade. Its strategic position near the Gulf of Mexico allowed it to flourish as a commercial center, especially with the Naval base.Culturally and socially, Key West is known for its vibrant, diverse community. Ernest Hemingway famously made it home, and his legacy remains in many local landmarks. Politically, the city has leaned more progressive, with a history of supporting environmental initiatives and civil rights. Despite its past ties to the Confederacy, it shifted views over time, reflecting broader state and national trends. During their stay, travelers will enjoy learning about the island’s unique conch culture and its resilience through historical challenges like hurricanes and economic shifts, providing endless stories and sites to explore.
